Why You Should Give Sober January a Shot
Alcohol's Place at the Table
Alcohol has long had a seat at the table of global culture. Have something to celebrate? Pop a bottle of champagne! Had a tough day at work? Try a glass of cabernet. Getting together with old friends? Crack open a six-pack of beer! Have you ever thought about enjoying these moments without alcohol? That’s what Sober January challenges you to do.
What is Considered Moderate Drinking?
Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that adults of legal drinking age can choose not to drink, or to drink in moderation by limiting intake to 2 drinks or less in a day for men and 1 drink or less in a day for women. That said, studies show that 2 in every 3 adults report drinking above moderate levels at least once a month.
The Risks Associated with Alcohol Consumption
According to the CDC, alcohol consumption is associated with a variety of short and long-term risks, including motor vehicle crashes, violence, sexual risk behaviors, high blood pressure, and various cancers. Additionally, the risk of these harms increases with the amount of alcohol you consume. Alcohol consumption can also lead to increased anxiety and depression.
Consuming Alcohol Can Weaken Your Immune System
According to Dr. Carrie Connett of CMC Primary Care Prince Creek, “alcohol can lower the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections, including the common cold and covid.”
The Benefits of Sober January
Dr. Connett shares “abstaining from alcohol is an easy way to eliminate empty calories and assist with weight loss goals.” She adds, “people may notice improved energy, better quality of sleep, less depression, and less anxiety within just a few weeks of alcohol cessation.”
Tips for Eliminating or Reducing Alcohol Intake
Set Clear Goals: Start by setting clear and realistic goals for reducing your alcohol intake. These goals could be related to the number of days per week you’ll drink, the quantity you’ll consume, or even abstaining completely for a certain period such as Sober January. Discuss your goals with your healthcare provider at CMC Primary Care to ensure they align with your overall health objectives. View our curated tips for reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption.
According to the CDC, individuals who shouldn’t drink at all include people who are:
- Pregnant or might be pregnant.
- Younger than age 21.
- Have certain medical conditions or are taking certain medications that can interact with alcohol.
- Recovering from an alcohol use disorder or if they are unable to control the amount they drink.
Reach for a delicious "Mock-tail" instead
Moscow Mule Mocktail
- 1 cup Non-Alcoholic ginger beer
- Lime juice and lime wedges for garnish
- 1/3 cup Club soda or sparkling water
Directions:
Fill a glass or copper mule mug 2/3 full with ice. Top with ginger beer, lime juice, and club soda. Stir to combine and garnish with lime wedge.
Grapefruit Paloma Mocktail
Grapefruit is packed with vitamin C, vitamin A, and healthy properties to support your immune system.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz grapefruit juice
- 1 oz fresh lime juice (and sliced limes for garnish)
- Sparkling water
- Ice
Directions:
Fill a glass with ice. Add the grapefruit juice and lime juice and give it a stir. Top with sparkling water and add a slice of lime for garnish.
Mock-Rita
This vitamin C-infused drink is departing for the hydration station, so why not hop on board?
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup limeade
- 1/2 cup lime flavored Sparkling Water
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- ice
- Optional: salt & lime to garnish the rim
Directions:
Pour limeade, sparkling water, and OJ into a pitcher and mix. Rim glass with lime and salt if desired. Fill the glass with ice, then pour your mockrita over and garnish with a lime wedge.
Hit Me With Your Best Juice Shot
Take a shot at better health with a wellness shot from our friends at Juice Crush in Conway! They offer a variety of fresh juices that are yummy and nutritious. If you want to turn these into a mocktail, simply add soda or seltzer water, pour over ice, and add your favorite garnishes.
A happier healthier YOU with CMC Primary Care
CMC Primary Care is there for you along every step of your health journey. If you are looking for healthy alternatives, talk with your primary care provider about nutrition and getting adequate exercise on your next visit. Diabetes and cancer patients are welcome at our CMC support groupswhere the topic of nutrition is often discussed in a welcoming environment.
CMC Primary Care Prince Creek
